Sample 'a presentation of a complementary
therapy' taken from
'The Encyclopedia of Natural Healing'
Reflexology: Treatment
After relaxing the feet, the practitioner works all areas of each foot with her hands and thumbs to stimulate the reflex points. Several techniques are used, particularly the "caterpillar walk", which allows gentle movement from one reflex point to another. The pad of the thumb creeps over the skin, applying and releasing pressure. Also common is the "webbing pinch", in which pressure is applied to the web of skin between the toes to aid lymphatic drainage.
Sinuses
Beginning at the base of the toe, the practitioner uses the caterpillar walk, her thumb slowly creeping up each toe toward the tip. Repeated stimulation of the sinus points on each toe aims to ease congestion and relieve pain.
Neck and thyroid gland
The practitioner works below the first three toes of each foot with her thumb from beneath, then works across the top of the foot with her index finger to help the neck and thyroid, and ease menstrual pain.
Hip and pelvis
Using all four fingers, the practitioner works from the back of the foot up the outside edge of the heel, supporting the foot with the other hand. This is designed to relax the muscles and ease inflammation in the joints.
Intestine
Beginning on the right foot, the practitioner uses her thumb to creep repeatedly across the lower half of the sole. She will then work the same area on the left foot. These two actions together stimulate the whole digestive system.
